# sedation

/səˈdeɪʃən/ (US) · /sɛdˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sedation
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the use of medicine to make you feel sleepy or relaxed so you can have a medical treatment. It is not as strong as general anesthesia but helps you stay calm during a procedure.

For teachers: the administration of a drug to induce a state of reduced consciousness or relaxation, typically for the purpose of medical treatment. Often used to describe a level of consciousness between full wakefulness and general anesthesia.

## Examples

- The doctor used sedation to help me relax during the scan.
- The patient received light sedation before the dentist performed the root canal to ensure she remained comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Modern dental practices often utilize mild sedation to manage patient anxiety, allowing for more complex treatments to be completed in a single session without the risks associated with full anesthesia.

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